Brandeis University President's House

The Brandeis University President's House is a two-story L-shaped residence with broad overhanging eaves, exposed rafters, and stucco-clad stone walls positioned at the corner of Beaumont and Prospect streets. The structure displays characteristic American Craftsman design with carefully detailed exterior features and roofline elements.

The building was constructed in 1913 for state legislator Leland Powers and experienced an anarchist bomb attack in 1919. Brandeis University acquired the property in 1948 to serve as the official presidential residence.

The residence reflects Arts and Crafts design principles throughout its interior spaces and functions as a gathering venue for university events and formal occasions. Visitors can observe the craftsmanship in the rooms where academic and social gatherings regularly take place.

The residence is located in the Newton area of Massachusetts at a prominent corner of campus and is easy to find. Visitors should note that the building primarily serves as the president's working residence and is accessible only during special events and occasions.

Between 1992 and 1994, the house was owned by Roger Berkowitz, the CEO of the Legal Sea Foods restaurant chain, representing an unusual interruption in its academic use. This period of private ownership was a rare deviation from its role as university property.

Location: Massachusetts

Architectural style: American Craftsman

GPS coordinates: 42.26083,-71.19583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02